How climate action starts with a story

This week, as more than 100 countries around the world celebrate World Book Day, we’re reminded that stories are powerful tools for change. Around the world, young authors are using storytelling to explore the world’s biggest challenges and inspire action toward the Global Goals.

From protecting fragile ecosystems to encouraging sustainable consumption, these writers show that stories can spark awareness, empathy, and real-world impact. Let’s hear from some of the young authors at Voices of Future Generations:

Author: Rehema Kibugi
Book title: The Children Who Saved The Mangroves

1. What was your inspiration for your story? Inspiration for my story came from a visit to a mangrove forest in Gazi Village, Kenya. Witnessing how the local community protected and respected this vital ecosystem truly brought SDG 13 and SDG 15 to life.

2. How did it feel to see your name in a published book? Has it changed how you see yourself as a changemaker? Publishing a book has been so exciting! I have loved being able to spread awareness on the SDGs. It has also reinforced my belief that even children’s stories can have a lasting impact, helping readers of all ages understand the importance of sustainability.

3. If your characters were alive today, what would they say about the progress we’ve made toward the Global Goals? Kamau and Baraka would both be proud of the young people voicing their opinions on sustainability. At the same time, they would call for greater awareness of the human impact on marine life, as well as stronger legislation to protect ecosystems like mangrove forests around the world.

4. Why do you think stories are a powerful tool for change? What is your message for other young people? Stories about children who stand up for what they believe gives readers the nudge they need to speak up. My message to young people is that everyone’s voice matters! So please try and speak up on what you are passionate about, and spread awareness as much as possible. Enforcing these values as young people secures us a brighter, and sustainable future.

Author: Inayah Faeez
Book title: Nursing The Future

1. What was your inspiration for your story? I found inspiration to write my story when my mom showed me a news article about improper disposal of pharmaceuticals. I realised that what might seem like a small act can lead to widespread environmental damage.

2. How did it feel to see your name in a published book? Has it changed how you see yourself as a changemaker? It still feels surreal to see my name on a published book! This experience has shown me that each of us can become changemakers. We just need to believe in ourselves, be creative and share our voice.

3. If your character was alive today, what would they say about the progress we’ve made toward the Global Goals? Reem would be proud of the progress we’ve made towards the Global Goals. She would deeply appreciate how the younger generations have raised their voices without being limited by their age or by how often their voices are overlooked in many communities.

4. Why do you think stories are a powerful tool for change? What is your message for other young people? Stories can create room for empathy which is very important to inspire change. My message to young people is to never shy away from speaking out. You are the future, and so you, more than anybody else, deserve the right to express your worries and hopes for the world.

Author: Sydnee Wynter Nisyok
Book titles: The Brothers’ Reunion & Coming Back Home

1. What was your inspiration for your story? Being Indigenous, my inspiration was learning about injustices against Indigenous people; especially, when they were told they have no rights to land, identity, culture and family.

2. How did it feel to see your name in a published book? Has it changed how you see yourself as a changemaker? When I first saw my name on one of my books, it changed the way I see myself. Now, I feel more confident in the impact I can create when I put my mind to it.

3. If your characters were alive today, what would they say about the progress we’ve made toward the Global Goals? If my characters were alive today, I think they would be proud and excited about the progress we have had with Indigenous Peoples and Children’s Rights. They would also implore to keep the momentum to push forward for a greater change as 2030 approaches.

4. Why do you think stories are a powerful tool for change? What is your message for other young people? I think stories are a powerful tool for creating change because they allow others to learn from our mistakes. My message to young people is to keep thinking of ideas to make the world a better place and not be afraid to share them.

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Across different countries, cultures, and experiences, these young authors show the same truth: stories can be powerful drivers of change. As we celebrate World Book Day, we are reminded that every story shared has the power to inspire empathy, spark action, and move us closer to achieving the Global Goals.

To explore more educational resources for the Global Goals, visit: World’s Largest Lesson
To learn more about Voices of Future Generations, visit: https://www.vofg.org

Author: Alysha Alva, Communications Executive for the World’s Largest Lesson